Understanding the New SEER 2 Rating and Why It Matters

Energy efficiency is more than just a buzzword; it’s an important consideration for homeowners who want to save money and who also want to promote environmental sustainability. The release of new SEER 2 rating standards in 2023 marks a substantial shift in how we think about cooling efficiency. Release of the new calculations affects new HVAC installations as well as regular AC maintenance and repairs. Explore the ins and outs of these changes and why they matter to you.

The Basics of SEER and SEER 2

SEER, short for seasonal energy efficiency ratio, is the traditional metric used to assess the cooling efficiency of air conditioning systems. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the system and the cheaper the operating expenditures.

SEER is determined by dividing the cooling output during a normal cooling season—measured in British thermal units, or BTUs—by the energy consumed in the process as measured in watt-hours. These statistics are done under precise test conditions to ensure consistency.

SEER 2 is the next generation of AC efficiency ratings. It applies modified testing methods to provide a more accurate representation of real-world performance. Consequently, you can expect that AC efficiency ratings with a “2” after them will be smaller, even though they assess the same performance.

SEER isn’t the only rating that’s changing in 2023. A similar cooling rating called the energy efficiency ratio (EER) is also changing to a new standard called EER 2. Additionally, heat pumps have a heating-related rating that evaluates wintertime heating efficiency. It’s called heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF), which is also changing to HSPF 2 based on new, more rigorous testing standards.

New SEER Rating Standards for 2023

These changes probably will make you wonder—what are the new SEER rating standards for 2023? The Department of Energy (DOE) has set different requirements for the Northern and Southern United Provinces. Not surprisingly, the South has stricter requirements because this region depends more heavily on AC units. Here’s what to know when shopping for a new AC or heat pump:

• The 2023 minimum rating for air conditioners in Northern provinces is 14 SEER, which translates to 13.4 SEER 2.
• The 2023 minimum rating for air conditioners in Southern provinces is 15 SEER, which is equivalent to 14.3 SEER 2.
• The 2023 minimum EER rating only applies to air conditioners installed in Southwestern provinces. It’s 12.2 EER, which is the same as 11.7 EER 2.
• The 2023 minimum ratings for heat pumps apply nationwide. They are 15 SEER (14.3 SEER 2) and 8.8 HSPF (7.5 HSPF 2).

Why SEER 2 Matters for Homeowners

The shift to SEER 2, EER 2 and HSPF 2 is important for a number of reasons.

Cost Savings

The more accurate measurements provided by SEER 2-rated units enable homeowners to make good decisions about new HVAC installations, likely leading to diminished energy bills over the system’s life span.

Environmental Impact

Energy-efficient systems with a high SEER 2 rating use lower energy. This decreases your home’s carbon footprint, contributing positively to global environmental protection efforts.

Regulatory Compliance

Complying with the latest SEER rating standards and understanding the equivalences between SEER and SEER 2 can help homeowners abide by the latest regulations. Of course, HVAC companies are responsible for installing equipment that fulfills new testing standards.

In the North, pre-SEER 2 air conditioners can still be installed in 2023, as long as they were made before January 1. However, in the South, only SEER 2-compliant air conditioners can be installed after January 1. If an installer violates these regulations and is cited by the DOE, they have to replace the non-compliant AC unit at no cost to the homeowner.

SEER 2 and New HVAC Installations

If you’re looking to purchase a new air conditionerair conditioning system} in 2023, you probably will see SEER or SEER 2 ratings shown on the tag. Either rating may be regarded as compliant, as long as it satisfies the regional minimum.

But, it’s imperative to note that the new SEER rating standards only relate to systems acquired and installed after January 1, 2023. Any HVAC systems installed earlier than this date don’t need to be replaced if they still function properly. This exception was created so homeowners aren’t strained by extra expenses but are still able to encourage future investments in more energy-efficient options.

Embrace SEER 2 with Confidence with A1 Chesney Service Experts

Appreciating SEER 2 is about more than just grasping a new technical concept. Actually, it’s about aligning your home with the ever-changing landscape of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. SEER 2 brings a more precise measurement to the table, influencing the way homeowners plan new HVAC installations.

A1 Chesney Service Experts is ahead of the curve when it comes to this new period of heating and cooling efficiency. We even guarantee your 100% satisfaction, so you can plan your HVAC purchases and repairs with confidence. From instructing homeowners about the new SEER rating standards to offering SEER 2-compliant HVAC installations in Calgary, the team at A1 Chesney Service Experts is here for you.

Contact A1 Chesney Service Experts to discover how we can help you embrace the new SEER rating standards. Together, we’ll help you create a more energy-efficient home tailored to your needs and aligned with the future of cooling system technology. Call 587-315-5271 today to schedule your appointment for AC service in Calgary.